NVI Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 27(NVI): After an extended dry spell, Kashmir has been graced with its first significant snowfall of the season, covering areas like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, and other parts of South Kashmir in a pristine white blanket.
The snowfall has brought much-needed relief to farmers, rejuvenated the tourism industry, and uplifted the spirits of the local population.
In Gulmarg, Manzoor Ahmad, a sled operator, expressed his happiness. “It has been a tough few weeks with no tourists. This snowfall is like a blessing for us. I already have bookings for the sled rides, and I hope this continues throughout the season.”
In Pahalgam, a local farmer, Abdul Rashid, shared his relief. “The dry spell was worrying for all of us. This snowfall will recharge our water sources and ensure our crops thrive in the coming months. For us, this snow is life.”
Shabir Ahmad, a shopkeeper in Pulwama, added, “The snow always brings more tourists, and more tourists mean more business for us. We are now hopeful for a good winter season.”
In Anantnag, 65-year-old Nazir Ahmed spoke about the community’s connection to the snowfall. “Snowfall is not just weather for us; it’s part of our culture and livelihood. The valley looks alive again.”
In Shopian and Kulgam, locals were equally elated. In Shopian, a local youth named Bilal Ahmad said, “The snow is a blessing for us. It brings joy, and most importantly, it will help our farmers. We have been waiting for this for weeks.” In Kulgam, a farmer, Ghulam Hassan, echoed this sentiment, saying, “This snowfall is a relief. It helps our crops and is a sign of the season turning in our favor.”
Youngsters in Srinagar made the most of the day, enjoying snowball fights and creating snowmen. A college student, Iqra Jan, said, “This is the most beautiful part of living in Kashmir. The snow makes everything magical, and it’s a joy to step outside.”
Tourists visiting Kashmir are equally thrilled. At Sonmarg, a family from Punjab shared their excitement. “We came hoping to see snow, and Kashmir did not disappoint. It feels like a dream come true,” said Harpreet Kaur.
Meanwhile, the tourism sector is already seeing an uptick in activity. Bashir Ahmad, a hotel manager in Gulmarg, remarked, “Snowfall is the lifeline of winter tourism in Kashmir. The phones haven’t stopped ringing since morning with new bookings. This is the boost we needed after a dry spell.”
Authorities are actively working to ensure smooth connectivity. While the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway faced temporary closures due to snow accumulation, clearing operations are underway, and flight schedules are being monitored closely.
The Meteorological Department has predicted more snow in the coming days, sparking hope for a strong winter season. For the people of Kashmir, this snowfall has brought not just beauty but also optimism for better days ahead.(News Vibes of India)
